Veteran Volunteers for Veteran Hospice Patients (St. Catherine)

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Veteran Volunteer for Hospice Veteran Patients

A Veteran Volunteer in a hospice setting is a trained individual, often a fellow veteran, who provides compassionate companionship and support to hospice patients who have served in the military. Because veterans share a unique bond and understanding of military culture, they are uniquely positioned to offer emotional, social, and spiritual support to fellow veterans at the end of life.

✔ Provide Companionship & Emotional Support - Engage in conversation, reminisce about military service, and provide a comforting presence.
✔ Conduct Veteran Pinning Ceremonies - Honor the veteran’s service with military recognition events, such as certificate presentations, flag ceremonies, and medals of appreciation.
✔ Assist with Life Review & Legacy Projects - Help veterans reflect on their service and create memory books, letters, or recordings for loved ones.
✔ Facilitate Connection to VA Benefits & Resources - Guide patients and families to Veterans Affairs (VA) programs, burial benefits, and military honors.
✔ Support Families of Veterans - Offer emotional support to veteran spouses and caregivers who may also share a military background.
✔ Collaborate with the Hospice Team - Work alongside nurses, social workers, chaplains, and bereavement counselors to provide veteran-centered care.

✅ Hospice Volunteer Training

• Must complete hospice volunteer training to understand patient care, confidentiality (HIPAA), and end-of-life needs.
• Training covers veteran-specific needs, including PTSD, moral injury, and survivor’s guilt.

✅ Military Background (Preferred but Not Required)

• Veterans, active-duty personnel, and military family members are highly encouraged to volunteer.

✅ Familiarity with Veteran Services

• Understanding of VA benefits, military history, and service-related challenges to provide informed support.

✅ Compassionate Communication Skills

• Ability to listen, validate experiences, and provide comfort without judgment.